Lada's model offensive will continue with a brand new third generation of the Niva 4x4 that will be introduced in 2018.

Lada's model offensive will continue with a brand new third generation of the Niva 4x4 that will be introduced in 2018.

Even though the Russian car market is experiencing a major drop in sales, Lada is in a renaissance phase and has already launched the new Vesta and X-Ray models. They will be joined by a new Niva 4x4 off-roader that will be revealed in the autumn of 2018. Until now, it was believed the SUV should be ready for a late-2016 launch, but according to a report in Russian media it will be delayed with nearly two years.

Izvestia claims the model will arrive in three- and five-door versions, both featuring a large boot lid. Preliminary rumors suggest the Niva 4x4 will get a new and more powerful engine that will replace the current 1.7-liter petrol unit with 83 horsepower. It will be mated to a manual gearbox and a permanent all-wheel drive system.

Some months ago it was believed the model could also get a Renault-sourced diesel motor, but this information is still unconfirmed.

Russian media is also reporting that when the new Niva 4x4 arrives on the market it will be offered alongside the current generation of the SUV.